GNP in East Millinocket to Shut Down for Up to 16 Weeks

The cost of doing business is forcing Great Northern Paper in East Millinocket to temporarily shut down.

A spokesperson for the company says workers could be off the job for up to four months. About 250 people are employed at the mill.

The shutdown begins at the end of Thursday’s afternoon shift.

Scott Tranchemontagne says all employees will be retained for at least two months. He says the shutdown will give the company time to create a new business plan.

He says high production costs combined with lower market prices lead to the decision.

Tranchemontagne added that GNP clearly understands and accepts its role and responsibility in attempting to create conditions that will allow GNP to succeed.

“Stopping production was an extremely difficult decision to make, but continuing to run the mill under the current conditions is neither a viable nor responsible option. We need to fix fundamental, long-term issues, as opposed to applying short-term fixes.”